The French appear to have a strong idea that William
II. is trying to intervene in the Papal election. They say that the Emperor considers the support of the Papacy essential to his Weltpolitik, and that all German and Austrian Cardinals, especially the Prince - Bishop of Breslau, have received strict instructions in that sense. This speculation looks pro- found, but the next' Pope will probably go his own way with- out reference to anybody's " world-policy." Moreover, the German Emperor has a much smaller but more peremptory reason for endeavouring to influence the election. He cannot manage his Parliament without the aid of the Centre party, which accepts the guidance of the Vatican, and a hostile Pope would spoil all such schemes of his as involve fresh expendi- ture. It is not. therefore, for the sake of a vaguely grand future, but on account of immediate necessities, that he watches the election with anxiety, and may endeavour to influence it directly. In any case, he will probably fail, for the Italian Cardinals are not friendly to the Hohenzollern, and are just now disposed to resent any interference, or appearance of interference, with their freedom.
